We have recently announced the appointment of Pete Burden as our new non-executive Chairman. Pete has been working with us for two years as a business coach and mentor; this appointment formalizes the existing relationship between us and demonstrates our commitment to strengthening our management and governance.

Pete said “I am really excited by the opportunity. NixonMcInnes is one of the leaders in the social media revolution, creating online services that make a difference offline. This is something I am passionate about, and I am really happy to be able to make a contribution.”

Over his 30 year career, Pete has worked with innovators of all kinds. Following an early technical background, working with computer networks in the 1980s, his commercial apprenticeship was with the very innovative US corporation Digital Equipment, now part of HP. Amongst other things, Pete helped establish a 70-strong consulting group serving clients in the City of London.

From 1994 (just before the dot-com era) he worked in a number of startups and innovative projects mainly around electronic content and publishing of various types including early social media projects such as World Press Centre. Pete was one of the core team that created BBC News Online in 1997 and went on to work with the BBC to help launch its first interactive TV services.

“My contribution has nearly always been around helping creative and entrepreneurial people deliver concrete results, and get the business and other benefits they deserve. As well as focusing on commercial success, my other interest is applying lessons from psychology and life, and I really enjoy helping people discover and fulfil their potential.”

Moving to Brighton in 2001, Pete started working with local businesses. Amongst other things, he set up the Hub100 – an exclusive group for the MDs and owners of fast growing businesses allowing them to share expertise and best-practice.

“One of the things that attracted me to NixonMcInnes was the company’s commitment to democratic ways of working. I believe strongly that we are at the start of a sea change in the way business operates and the contribution it makes to society. Never has the time been better for companies embracing democratic principles internally and with clients to take centre stage.”

Pete continues to work with other Brighton businesses and is on the Boards of several other local companies. He has two children and lives in Lewes.

Our MD Will has said, “Pete’s advice and experience have been invaluable in helping us to grow the company and continue to offer innovative insight to our clients. As part of the management team, Pete will be able to help us go from strength to strength as we increasingly look to offer a broader range of services to our clients.”

Welcome and thank you Pete.